#WorldCupRank: No. 7 Yaya Toure

Why he's ranked: Toure's pace, strength and agility are not typical traits for a man of his towering stature. Yet he has all that and more, as his physical presence makes him a threat in the air -- and in the tackle. His shooting power is also impressive, and he will be keen to transfer his sparkling Premier League scoring form with Manchester City into the international arena at Brazil 2014.

Yaya Toure's ability and and sheer size make him a dominant force for Cote d'Ivoire.

Key stat: Yaya scored more EPL goals this season (20) than he did in his first three EPL seasons (19).

What the experts say: "A colossus. When Yaya picks up the ball, he tilts the balance of play. With him it's not just power, it's so much more. Twenty goals in 35 league games from midfield for Manchester City this season tells its own story." - James Horncastle